La porta verde — Restaurant in Sanremo

This is a true hidden gem that I shouldn't be telling the world about... but alas... they deserve all the success in the world. Plus, YOU need to experience their food. We were looking for the best pasta in Italy and found it. The pasta you dream about.... that you forget any diet... you happily loosen your pants... you tell your friends about (or the world). Authentic, homemade, DELICIOUS, healthy, and in a familial environment. The setting makes it feel like you are in your Auntie, Nonna or friend’s house and the husband and wife team (Katie and Francesco) make it warm and inviting. We loved every moment of our lunch and can't wait to go back. It’s not touristy.... the exact opposite. The other diners we met were long-time locals stopping in for a family lunch. We had the pesto, ravioli with calms, and the tagliatelle with sausage ragu.. with the local white wine for all less than 50 EUROs. I also appreciated (but didn't need) the care they showed to allergies. Everything on the menu was identified by what could be a potential allergy (but in an authentic and un-intrusive way). Run.. don't walk. Katie and Francesco will welcome you. I can't wait...

We’ve been coming since 2022, but La Porta Verde has completely lost the plot. The Canadian owner went from warm and welcoming to cold, arrogant and disengaged, now she barely acknowledges her regular guests. The food? Rubbery, dry pasta with minimal sauce, and stuffed anchovies so salty and dry they’re barely edible, hardly any sauce. No salads, no sides, hardly any vegetables, no fresh fruits, nothing to balance the dishes, just dry plates and inflated confidence. The atmosphere is nonexistent. No music no ambiance. It feels more like a budget café: touristy, uncomfortable chairs, no tablecloths, cheap cutlery, slow service and a tacky, outdated toilet. No music, no soul, no reason to linger. This place is running on faded hype. It’s overrated, complacent, and no longer worth the visit. You’ll find better food, service, and atmosphere right next door! The Italian owners remain to be warm and welcoming to guests no matter what. Best to skip it altogether and head to Paolo e Barbara, where standards...

Charming little restaurant located in a small street close to a big shopping street. Run by Italian chef Francesco and his Canadian (but fluently Italian speaking) partner Katie, supported by their high level kitchen staff. Lovely people that make you feel right at home. Even better food. Meat, fish, vegetables and local wine were impeccable. First time I had ‘Vitello Tonato’ that was actually how it was intended to taste. Sardines fresh and originally prepared. In short: honest local ingredients turned into lovely and dishes far beyond the ‘tourist trap’. Whenever you’re in San Remo, go here if you want an honest but impressing dinner that is very much worth it’s reasonable price and very friendly...